music & culture.

Now, before we get into some things, I do not speak for the entire Black community and this is simply my opinion. The way I understand cultural appropriation is as such: “A person (likely from a culture with higher socio-political capital) lifts elements of a culture that is not theirs and uses it for (usually monetary) gain. While they do this, they actively denounce the … Continue reading Here’s Why Ariana Grande’s “7 rings” Is Not Cultural Appropriation

On the follow up to her massive “thank u, next,” Ariana cuts the crooning and raps about retail therapy as a way to get over a breakup. Like “thank u,” “7 rings” is empowering. She flips the weight of her engagement ring in to friendship rings for “six of her bitches.” Ariana is delightfully cocky (“write my own checks like I write what I sing”) … Continue reading Ariana Grande Reaches New Heights with “7 rings”

These are the artists that will explode in 2019. Ava Max As per usual, the U.S. is always the last to get hip on new artists and songs. Ava Max’s breakout smash hit, “Sweet but Psycho,” has already reached #1 in 15 countries including three consecutive weeks (and counting) in the U.K. Max’s smash hit recalls the candy-coated daydream of 2010 Katy Perry with the … Continue reading Artists to Watch Out for in 2019

Yes, 2019 is all but less than a month old, but Normani and Sam Smith have already come out guns blazing with their new track: “Dancing with a Stranger.” In recent years, “sad bops,” or songs with uptempo-ish melodies and melancholic themes, have dominated airwaves and playlists. Think records like “Green Light” (Lorde); “One Last Time” (Ariana Grande); or “Be Careful” (Cardi B). While the … Continue reading Normani & Sam Smith Make a Strong Case for Best Collab of 2019

Happy New Year! While 2018 was a stellar year for music (read my best albums and best songs lists), I’m even more excited for what 2019 has in store. From the blockbuster soundtracks to the grand return of some of music’s biggest names, 2019 is sure to be a huge year for music. So, without further ado, here are the 30 most anticipated albums of … Continue reading 30 Most Anticipated Albums of 2019

Late last night (or early this morning, depending on your timezone), Netflix released the fifth installment of the critically-acclaimed anthology series, Black Mirror. A macabre rumination of technology and interpersonal human relationships, Black Mirror is a series that quickly captivated fans around the world with its dark humor and ingenuity. Black Mirror: Bandersnatch is essentially a choose-your-own-adventure interactive ninety-minute special. The viewer controls a series of commands ranging from … Continue reading 3 Biggest Takeaways from ‘Black Mirror: Bandersnatch’

#40. Pistol Annies, “Got My Name Changed Back” Is there anything better than a spunky, celebratory song about freedom after divorce? The rollicking lead single from the Miranda Lambert-fronted band’s third album, “Changed Back,” is a simple Americana-influenced track that is incredibly empowering. Stacked with guitars, steel drums, and beautiful harmonies, this track helps to continue to make country music less of a boy’s club … Continue reading Top 40 Songs of 2018